The next time you’re in Orchard, take a little walk. Just a little off the beaten path, on 10 Winstedt Road is the classy yet cosy Skyve Wine Bistro. There’s an alfresco area for wine and cheese as you watch the sunset, comfy sofas to chill with your buddies or a fancier dining area to impress your bosses. And, to match, they have a huge delectable menu of plump oysters, hearty mains and treats which have been refreshed with a delightful Japanese-influence.
A starter that’s not to be missed is The Sleeping Oysters. During my meal, I was served up with these plump and sweet Canadian Oysters dressed up two ways: Gaucho and Ume Uni.
The former was a refreshing apple cider vinegar based dressing that is best for savouring the taste of these prime oysters, while the latter danced between the sour plum and buttery sweetness of the sea urchin. Oh, how a day would be made if I had a plate of them with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
If oysters are not your thing (it is an acquired taste, after all), the Shoyu Saba is sure to please. Skyve continues to spread the love for sea urchin here as it is lightly brushed atop the mackerel (saba) before grilling. Mackerel is one of my favourite fishes. Not only does it boast a bold savoury flavour, but is also packed with an abundance of fish oils which give it a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The sweetness of the urchin helps to downplay the fattiness, all while complimenting its unique taste.
Other appetisers include the Uni Spaghettini and Soft Shell Crab Amadine. What took me by surprise was the preserved herring roe (aburi kazunok0) that rested atop the Uni Spaghettini! It was sauteed with the sea urchin, making it crunchy and sweet with a tinge of ocean brine. And, no. Not fishy at all. On the other hand, those who love their cold soba and tempura combination will adore the Soft Shell Crab Amadine. Same, same but different. The soft shell crab was dusted in semolina instead, making it lighter (and less oily) and maintains the full flavour of the crab and its decadent roe. A sure fire wake up call to your palette.
Then, come the mains. I tried three dishes that day; Sous Vide Hibachi Pork, Misozuke Cod and the Daizu Portobello Burger. What impressed me the most was the last. It is one of the few vegetarian dishes that have got me thinking that I could definitely give up the lure of a medium rare rib eye.
This towering behemoth of grilled portobello, spinach, tofu and tempeh (Indonesian soybean cake) sandwiched between two fluffy brioche buns is served with a side of chunky truffle fries. What makes it stand out from a usual mushroom or tofu patty is that Marie Rose sauce (similar to thousand island) and the addition of the tempeh. Firm yet chewy, earthy with a hint of sweetness, the tempeh has been my favourite side dish at any nasi padang store and continues to satisfy me in their Daizu Portobello Burger.
Another dish to try would be the Sous Vide Hibachi Pork. Made using chargrilled Spanish pork rack, the dish blew me away at how tender it was. Every bite was a true slice of perfection; never had I had pork that is void of the meaty odour and that juicy (just look at the photo)!
Everyone’s favourite pork crackling are served on the side, but what impressed me next was the barley risotto. It is a lighter and – note – healthier accompaniment, with a chewy texture I can’t get over. It reminds me of the time in Japan where they served their rice grains with barley!
Of course, no meal can end without desserts. While the dishes at Skyve are light (Japanese-influence is strong here), the Key Lime Semifreddo can be a good way to end the meal. The zesty ice cream acts as a digestif, refreshing your senses in hopes of avoiding that food coma (especially if you’re heading back to work). What took my breathe away was the Perfect Chocolate Pudding. Sounding deceptively simple, this is actually a rather special rendition of the classic after-dinner treat. It is gluten-free. Yes, you heard me right. Made of avocado and bananas, it is completely gluten-free. I also loved the addition of crushed peanuts on top for a play on textures. A definite thumbs up from me!
In fact, the entire dining experience at Skyve Wine Bistro ranks high in my book. The dishes are well thought out, with a special menu for vegetarians, gluten allergies and vegans. Where else in Singapore would you get such attention to your dietary needs all on one dining table? With the ambiance to match, if I might add.
Skyve Wine Bistro
No.10 Winstedt Road
Block E
#01-17
Singapore 227977
+65 6225 6690
